The artistic maturity, expressiveness and permanent dedication to the jazz tradition quickly positioned the National Jazz Orchestra as one of the most influential big bands in the Balkans. The official status as a National Institution in 2024 was a result of years of work, beginning with the big-band concerts in 2016. The Orchestra has developed a unique and contemporary sound under prominent conductors such as Sigi Feigl, Vladimir Nikolov and Emin Dzijan. Meanwhile, the ensemble collaborated with internationally acclaimed musicians like Kurt Elling, Maria Mendes, Donny McCaslin and John Riley. The orchestra at the jazz festival will perform under the leadership of the Austrian conductor Sigi Feigl with Luis Bonilla as a guest soloist. Feigl is considered one of Europe’s leading jazz figures and a pioneer in the development of big-band music and jazz education. He worked with legendary artists such as Art Farmer, Bob Brookmeyer and Toots Thielemans. Feigl is a current professor and the head of the jazz department at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Graz. Luis Bonilla also works and lives in Graz. He shaped his artisanship as a Lester Bowie’s student and a member of his legendary group Brass Fantasy. Bonilla has been a permanent member and a collaborator of some of the most renowned jazz ensembles.